The Los Angeles Angels haven’t fielded a World Series contender in years. Even though star outfielder Mike Trout is loyal, he indicated he’s tired of the ineptitude.
The 32-year-old, who’s entering his 14th season, said he’s been pushing the club to sign high-profile free agents and admitted he will consider a change if it fails to improve.
“When I signed that contract, I’m loyal,” Trout said Monday, per Sam Blum and Jenna West of The Athletic. “The overall picture of winning a championship or getting to the playoffs here is bigger satisfaction than bailing out and just taking the easy way out. Maybe down the road, if some things change. But that’s been my mindset ever since the trade speculation came up.”
Trout is in the sixth year of a 12-year, $426.5M deal. Over the next six seasons, his base salary is $35.45M. In 2023, he played in 82 games due to a left wrist injury and hasn’t starred in 120 games since 2019.
Still, he would command a massive market if he suddenly became available. Trout has made 11 All-Star games. He’s also won three American League MVPs and nine Silver Slugger Awards.
The Angels, meanwhile, last made the postseason in 2014 and haven’t had a winning season since 2015. This offseason, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani left the team for their cross-town rival, the Dodgers.
Owner Arte Moreno isn’t honoring Trout’s request. He recently told the media the team plans to operate on a lower payroll in 2024. Spotrac projects the team’s payroll is $156.91M, the 12th-highest in baseball. The luxury tax is $237M.
The Athletic’s Keith Law recently rated L.A.’s farm system as the second-worst in baseball, meaning it can’t bank on budding stars.
Moreno should reconsider shying away from blockbuster moves. Otherwise, the team will continue to wallow in mediocrity, making Trout want to play elsewhere.
